X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT): an emerging opportunity in parasite imaging.

X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT) is a technique which can obtain three-dimensional images of a sample, including its internal structure, without the need for destructive sectioning. Here, we review the capability of the technique and examine its potential to provide novel insights into the lifestyles of parasites embedded within host tissue. The current capabilities and limitations of the technology in producing contrast in soft tissues are discussed, as well as the potential solutions for parasitologists looking to apply this technique. We present example images of the mouse whipworm Trichuris muris and discuss the application of µCT to provide unique insights into parasite behaviour and pathology, which are inaccessible to other imaging modalities.

Trichuriasis colitis detected by Doppler sonography.

Trichuriasis affects children at an estimated prevalence rate of 17% in the world population. It sometimes affects the colon and causes unspecific symptoms and laboratory findings. This case describes a child with unspecific abdominal symptoms. Color Doppler sonography showed signs of diffuse colitis and colonoscopy demonstrated colonic infection by Trichuris. US was useful to orient the investigation. We describe color Doppler sonography findings and review the medical literature about the radiological findings of this entity.

Computed tomographic findings of trichuriasis.

In this report, we present computed tomographic findings of colonic trichuriasis. The patient was a 75-year-old man who complained of abdominal pain, and weight loss. Diagnosis was achieved by colonoscopic biopsy. Abdominal computed tomography showed irregular and nodular thickening of the wall of the cecum and ascending colon. Although these findings are nonspecific, they may be one of the findings of trichuriasis. These findings, confirmed by pathologic analysis of the biopsied tissue and Kato-Katz parasitological stool flotation technique, revealed adult Trichuris. To our knowledge, this is the first report of colonic trichuriasis indicated by computed tomography.

Trichuriasis. Roentgenographic features and differential diagnosis with lymphoid hyperplasia.

Twenty patients with massive trichuriasis were studied with double contrast barium enema. The following changes were observed: 1) Impregnation defects of the colonic wall probably due to abundant mucous secretions. 2) Granular features. 3) Pear-shaped caecum. 4) Radiolucid ringlike images with some contrast material in its center, similar to those seen in lymphoid hyperplasia. On closer observation it was seen that the radiolucid ring was not complete and was continued by a prolongation which corresponds to the whipworm. This feature is central to the differential diagnosis.